Can I claim someone who receives a disability ck from m'caid (m'care pays the premiums) that has had a heart transplant and their check amount not be effected?

[arts39]

My friend had a heart transplant in February, 2014. He has been sick more this year than any before. I have assisted in transporting him to and from the doctors and hospitals. I too have financially supported him over the last 6 - 7 months with some of his bills. He receives a disability check from Medicaid, Medicare pays the premiums. We were wondering since I assisted him so much, could I claim him as a dependent on my taxes and his disability check not be effected in any way? 

[xmasbaby0]

Does your friend Iive with you?

[arts39]

No. He doesn't.

[xmasbaby0 · Accepted solution]

Then, no, you cannot claim him as a dependent.  Someone who is not related to you cannot be claimed as a dependent unless they actually lived with you the whole year.  So without even getting into the issue of his Medicare/Medicaid, you cannot claim him.  It is kind that you are helping your friend, but it is not deductible in any way on your tax return.

IRS interview to help determine who can be claimed:

http://www.irs.gov/uac/Who-Can-I-Claim-as-a-Dependent%3F

https://ttlc.intuit.com/questions/3113432-who-can-i-claim-as-my-dependent  

[arts39]

Wowsa, I must've been given some wrong information. I was told this was allowable to claim head of household even with him not living with me if I can prove I supported him over 50%. Very interesting. Thanks for taking the time to research this for me.

[xmasbaby0]

You are welcome.  Sorry this was not the answer you were hoping for.